Manchester United manager Marc Skinner says he is “hardened” to personal criticism and reiterated the support he believes he has at the club.
Skinner also took time to address Sir Jim Ratcliffe's comments, with the United co-owner suggesting the “main problem” for the club was the men's team.
Ratcliffe's statement in an interview with United We Stand last week sparked outrage among supporters, who questioned the club's support for the women's team.
He also previously came under fire for stating he had no plan for the women's team following his takeover from the Red Devils in February.
Skinner was also the target of criticism from supporters after he insisted Ratcliffe's staff showed “love and affinity”.
Ian Wright also joined the debate, telling the Crossways podcast it was “a bad decision” by Skinner not to confront the issues and saying he was “dancing for the owner”.
“I don't hear it [the criticism]. I know because I get reports on what people are saying,” Skinner said when asked how he handled the criticism.
“I have a job in which you naturally feel the pressure of a situation. Of course, I'm human.
“When people say things that aren't necessarily true about you, it can affect the way you think, but actually I'm used to it. I'm used to dealing with that pressure.
“I don't think there are many managers who fall short as often as I do. In that sense I am hardened for it.
“But there's a balance between toughening up and also doing your job effectively and still being human.”
Our standards will not drop #MUWomen pic.twitter.com/d1o7NMDKKZ
– Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) December 13, 2024
United also parted ways with sporting director Dan Ashworth after just five months in charge following his move from Newcastle United.
Ashworth has been an advocate for the women's team and fans feared his departure would further damage the women's team, who are aiming to win their first Women's Super League title in 2028.
Ratcliffe's comments have disappointed the women's team, but Skinner stressed there are different ways to convey support for his side.
“She [the players] I need to know that this club really supports them and wants them to achieve great things,” said Skinner.
“You have seen our goals. It is difficult, we are widely reported and I understand why. But if you feel it, if you are internal, it is not a lie. We do not lie. But there are different ways You can support to express.”
The Red Devils are in WSL action against Crystal Palace on Sunday, hoping to build on their impressive win over rivals Liverpool last time out.
United sit fourth in the standings but will be confident of getting into the top three against the bottom club in the division, who have won just one game this season.
They have a perfect 10 wins from 10 records against newly promoted opponents in the WSL, scoring 29 goals and conceding just one goal.
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